AAA offers defensive flying tips

WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- With millions expected to jam U.S. airports for the Thanksgiving holiday, AAA is offering suggestions for making the ordeal survivable.

"Clearly airlines, airports and federal agencies can all do a much better job of helping to prevent flight delays," AAA President and Chief Executive Officer Robert L. Darbelnet said in a release. "However, changes will not be fast or easy and we should not be surprised if this trend continues. This holiday season, travelers are at risk of weather delays and other unforeseen mishaps. Americans need to practice defensive flying if they plan to have a pleasant and stress-free flight."

AAA estimates 4.8 million leisure travelers flew last Thanksgiving and 9 million took off for the Christmas-New Year's holiday. This year, the numbers are expected to be even higher.

Among AAA's suggestions for surviving flight delays, are defensive packing (defined as bringing something to occupy the time), not showing up hungry, pre-programming numbers for such contacts as travel agents into a cell phone, always booking the earliest flight and seeking out smaller airports.

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